WINTER GLOW RETURNS TO SANKOFA SQUARE THIS HOLIDAY SEASON

December 11–21, 2025 | Free Admission | All Ages Welcome

Hours: 4 pm to 10 pm on weekdays | 12 pm to 10 pm on weekends

Presented in partnership with Astro Amusements, Epilepsy Toronto
& The Thornton-Smith Corporation

Winter magic is back in downtown Toronto! From December 11 to 21, Sankofa Square transforms once again into a vibrant holiday destination filled with lights, music, festive flavours, classic rides, and community cheer. Now in its third year, Winter Glow continues to shine as one of Toronto’s most joyful urban holiday celebrations, bringing together families, friends, visitors, and neighbours in the heart of the city.

 
 

WHAT TO EXPECT THIS YEAR

OPENING NIGHT: THURSDAY, DECEMBER 11
Festivities begin at 5:00 PM

Kick off the holiday season with community, lights, and music:

  • A special performance by My Pop Choir

  • First Ferris wheel and carousel rides of the season

  • Holiday Market artisan shopping

  • Seasonal drinks at the licensed Polar Point Bar

  • Photo ops with Santa Claus and other festive surprises

Bring your friends, family, and your most festive outfit!


DAILY SCHEDULE

Every day Winter Glow features classic carnival rides and games, the Holiday Market, licensed Polar Point Bar, Santa Claus, and more! When planning your visit, check the daily schedule for special experiences and entertainment.

  • 5:00 PM Winter Glow opens to the public
    5:15 PM Welcome messages and special guest remarks followed by a Winter Glow ribbon cutting with Santa
    5:30 PM My Pop Choir performance

    PLUS #SHEINboxsanta, Glow Guy, and more!

  • The larger-than-life SHEIN Box Santa is at Winter Glow today with over 6,000 free gifts!

  • The larger-than-life SHEIN Box Santa is at Winter Glow today with over 6,000 free gifts!

  • All Day: The larger-than-life SHEIN Box Santa is at Winter Glow today with over 6,000 free gifts!

    12:30 to 12:55 PM: Preethi Suresh, TMU Alumni, Vocalist, Band | Anthem Singer

    A graduate from TMU in Urban and Regional Planning in 2020, Preethi has been working in her chosen field ever since. During her time at TMU, Preethi was the President of TMusicians - whose goal was to create an environment for musicians and music-lovers hosting weekly open mics, workshops, and other events on campus.

    1:00 to 1:25 PM: Rianna Jones, TMU Student, Vocalist

    Hailing from Brampton, Ontario, Rianna began her musical journey at a young age, immersing herself in a diverse range of musical influences. Growing up, she developed a deep appreciation for R&B, with gospel influence drawn to its soulful melodies, rich harmonies, and emotive storytelling. Her music serves as a vessel for self-expression, reflecting her personal experiences, emotions, and perspectives. She is an innovative and versatile artist who fearlessly navigates various genres, while primarily finding her creative home in the captivating world of R&B. With a unique ability to fuse different musical styles, she creates a distinct sound that pushes boundaries and captivates listeners.

    1:30 to 2:00 PM: Carina Bianchini, TMU Student | Vocalist | Anthem Singer

    A JUNO-nominated singer-songwriter and dancer, Carina Bianchini has released over 20 songs. She has performed at well-known Toronto venues and has made a name for herself with powerful vocals, iconic pink costumes, and dynamic performances. Her goal is to bring people together with her music and make an impact on modern day pop music!

  • 4:30 to 4:55 PM: Rianna Jones, TMU Student, Vocalist

    Hailing from Brampton, Ontario, Rianna began her musical journey at a young age, immersing herself in a diverse range of musical influences. Growing up, she developed a deep appreciation for R&B, with gospel influence drawn to its soulful melodies, rich harmonies, and emotive storytelling. Her music serves as a vessel for self-expression, reflecting her personal experiences, emotions, and perspectives. She is an innovative and versatile artist who fearlessly navigates various genres, while primarily finding her creative home in the captivating world of R&B. With a unique ability to fuse different musical styles, she creates a distinct sound that pushes boundaries and captivates listeners.

    5:00 to 5:25 PM: Ramya Ramnath, TMU Student, Vocalist, Anthem Singer

    A vocalist studying in the Professional Music Program at TMU, Ramya Ramnath has a long conservatory and musical theatre background where she trained for over 10 years as a vocal student, singing a diverse range of genres from Jazz to Italian. She has experience performing for vocal competitions, recitals and events and loves to perform and entertain audiences!

    5:30 to 6:00 PM: Carina Bianchini, TMU Student | Vocalist | Anthem Singer

    A JUNO-nominated singer-songwriter and dancer, Carina Bianchini has released over 20 songs. She has performed at well-known Toronto venues and has made a name for herself with powerful vocals, iconic pink costumes, and dynamic performances. Her goal is to bring people together with her music and make an impact on modern day pop music!

  • 4:30 to 4:55 PM: Stanly Siu, TMU Student, Classical Guitar

    A talented and creative guitarist, Stanley Siu will be performing as a TMU Superstar today! His love of classical guitar started at a young age growing up from the influence of listening to classical music from John William and David Russell. Stanley has given recitals in Toronto such as the Annette Studios. Stanley has also been heavily involved in the competition circuit, being awarded third place at the 2024 OMFA Provincial classical guitar competition. Playing classical guitar has taught him many valuable skills whether it be from practicing during his free time or being on the stage to showcase the music to his audience.

    5:00 to 5:25 PM: Michael Carter-Arlt, TMU Staff, Electric Guitarist, Anthem

    Michael Carter-Arlt is the Immersive Technology Specialist at the TMU Library and has been playing guitar for over 16 years, primarily playing electric guitar, but also acoustic and bass. His playing styles are influenced by rock, metal, jazz, funk, pop, soul, and R&B, and he typically focuses on improvisation as his main form of practice. On occasion, you can find Michael playing a few gigs each year in a cover band as the lead guitarist.

    5:30 to 5:25 PM: Rianna Jones, TMU Student, Vocalist

    Hailing from Brampton, Ontario, Rianna began her musical journey at a young age, immersing herself in a diverse range of musical influences. Growing up, she developed a deep appreciation for R&B, with gospel influence drawn to its soulful melodies, rich harmonies, and emotive storytelling. Her music serves as a vessel for self-expression, reflecting her personal experiences, emotions, and perspectives. She is an innovative and versatile artist who fearlessly navigates various genres, while primarily finding her creative home in the captivating world of R&B. With a unique ability to fuse different musical styles, she creates a distinct sound that pushes boundaries and captivates listeners.

  • 12:30 to 12:55 PM: Ariyanna Nardi, TMU Student, Vocalist, Anthem Singer

    Ariyanna is a passionate and hardworking individual and vocalist. She isn’t afraid to push beyond her boundaries and improve on the things she loves, including singing and becoming a TMU Superstar!

    1:00 to 1:25 PM: Preethi Suresh, TMU Alumni, Vocalist, Band | Anthem Singer

    A graduate from TMU in Urban and Regional Planning in 2020, Preethi has been working in her chosen field ever since. During her time at TMU, Preethi was the President of TMusicians - whose goal was to create an environment for musicians and music-lovers hosting weekly open mics, workshops, and other events on campus.

    1:30 to 2:00 PM: Carina Bianchini, TMU Student | Vocalist | Anthem Singer

    A JUNO-nominated singer-songwriter and dancer, Carina Bianchini has released over 20 songs. She has performed at well-known Toronto venues and has made a name for herself with powerful vocals, iconic pink costumes, and dynamic performances. Her goal is to bring people together with her music and make an impact on modern day pop music!


Epilepsy Toronto Brings the Holiday Market Vibes

NEW THIS YEAR: Epilepsy Toronto brings their beloved Holiday Market to Sankofa Square, creating a cozy, festive village right in the urban core.

Visitors can enjoy:

  • Local artisan vendors and handmade gifts

  • Twinkling photo-op backdrops perfect for holiday cards

  • Licensed Polar Point Bar with seasonal favourites like mulled wine and spiked hot apple cider

  • Real wood firepits to stay cozy

  • Photos with Santa Claus

Shop, sip, and support of Epilepsy Toronto’s vital community programs.

HOLIDAY MARKET VENDORS

Click image for more information about some of the vendors that will be at Winter Glow.

VENDORS STILL WELCOME: Limited spots available. If you’re interested in being a vendor at Winter Glow. Reach out to Epilepsy Toronto at vendors@epilepsytoronto.org for more information.


Classic Rides, Carnival Games, & Treats

Back by popular demand! Take in the city skyline from the 45-ft Ferris Wheel, or enjoy a spin on the Great Canadian Carousel—a nostalgic favourite for kids and adults alike.

Ride Tickets: $6 single | $20 for 4 | $37 for 8 | available for purchase on-site

Don’t forget to indulge the sweet tooth and enjoy mini donuts, hot chocolate, and more before testing midway game skills!


Brand Experiences, Pop-ups, & Giveaways

Throughout the 11-day event, visitors can enjoy festive brand activations, giveaways, and product sampling from a rotating lineup of partners. Bookmark this page and return often for the latest information on participating brands and experiences.

SHEIN Box Santa (Dec 11–14)

The larger-than-life SHEIN Box Santa returns with over 6,000 free gifts!

All that festive holiday-goers need to do is snap a photo with SHEIN’s Box Santa, post it with #SHEINboxsanta, and show your post to Santa’s helpers to claim your surprise gift.

From fashion to beauty and lifestyle must-haves, discover festive joy with SHEIN. Bring your friends and family for the perfect holiday photo and celebrate the spirit of giving!

Follow @sankofasquare and @shein_ca for announcements.

Are you a brand with exceptional holiday spirit to share? A few premium brand experience spaces are still available. Reach out to the Sankofa Square team at info@sankofasquare.ca to discuss available dates and rates.


STAY CONNECTED

Subscribe to our newsletter, and follow us on social for updates, schedule drops, and giveaways:

@sankofasquare | #SankofaSquare #WinterGlowTO